I grew up in a German household in Southern California celebrating German traditions like Advent. We spoke German in the home, my parents had German friends that were like family (we addressed them as Tante and Onkel), and they had kids who lived in two worlds the way I did. We ate German foods, attended German language school and we all had Omas and Opas who lived far away.
We also celebrated Holidays together. During theAdvent Season, the 4 Sundays leading up to Christmas, things kicked into high gear.
Advent Wreaths with four candles would go on the table. Then on Sunday Afternoons friends would be invited for an Advent Kaffeetafel with traditional cakes, cookies, and of course , coffee. Often there would be singing, with all of us joining in. I remember hearing many conversations going on at once in “Germanglish” (the hybridized version of German and English that we landed on) , lots of laughter, and delicious foods.
What is Advent?
In Germany Advent is a time of preparation for Christmas. Not the Black Friday elbowing people for the last Barbie doll preparation. It is a time where time can slow down a bit. Advent is a time of family and fellowship. A time for enjoying the season. Lots of sweets, music and a building anticipation for Christmas Eve!
My book Advent- Celebrating German Holiday Traditions in America is a collection of memories and ideas for celebrating Advent in your home . I’ve included bits of history, some tips for activities, and some recipes for your own Kaffeetafel.
If you grew up with German traditions, much of this will feel familiar. And if you are trying to connect with your heritage, I hope that this book will help.
Currently, the book is only available on Amazon for Kindle… but remember, you don’t need to own a Kindle to read a Kindle book… you just need to download the App to your Computer or phone….
Download the Kindle App Here… KINDLE APP DOWNLOAD
Purchase Advent- Celebrate German Holiday Traditions in America here-
wunderbahr!
So I have a crazy dumb blonde question. I bought your book on Amazon on my computer. And so it downloaded on my computer. But I actually want it on my iPad. So if I install the kindle app on my iPad, how do I get the book?
The way I understand it (from one blond to another) , when you have a Kindle account, all of your downloads are stored in the mysterious cloud…. So if you log into your account on another device, it can download into whatever device you are using.
hurray! Thanks karenanne! ❤️
YEAH!!!!
I’m German born but I live in America,I want the book ,hard copy not a kindle.
I will be revising and updating the book this summer, and will publish a hard copy as well. I will let you know when it’s finished.